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Tongue Cancer Unveiled: A Comprehensive Guide to Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment in India

Introduction Tongue cancer is an increasingly prevalent concern in India, especially in regions like Chennai, Tamil Nadu, Bhubaneswar, Siliguri, and Odisha. As a form of oral cancer, it poses significant health risks if not identified and treated early. This guide is designed to raise awareness, help individuals recognize tongue cancer symptoms, and understand the available treatment options and expert care across India.


What is Tongue Cancer? Tongue cancer typically originates in the squamous cells lining the surface of the tongue. It is classified into two types: cancer of the oral tongue (front two-thirds) and cancer of the base of the tongue (back third). This condition can develop slowly or aggressively, depending on several risk factors.

Tongue Cancer Symptoms: How to Recognize Early Signs Recognizing early signs of tongue cancer can drastically improve outcomes. Watch for these common symptoms:

  • Persistent sores or ulcers that do not heal
  • Red or white patches on the tongue
  • Unexplained tongue pain or numbness
  • Difficulty swallowing, chewing, or speaking
  • Bleeding from the tongue
  • Lumps or thick areas in the tongue

If any of these symptoms persist for more than two weeks, it is crucial to consult an ENT doctor for tongue biopsy and oral cancer screening.

Causes and Risk Factors of Tongue Cancer Understanding what causes tongue cancer helps in prevention and early action. Major risk factors include:

  • Tobacco use (smoking or chewing)
  • Alcohol consumption, especially when combined with tobacco
  • HPV and tongue cancer: Human Papillomavirus is a growing risk factor
  • Poor oral hygiene and chronic irritation
  • Genetic predisposition or immune suppression

Tongue Cancer vs. Mouth Ulcers: Key Differences Many patients mistake early tongue cancer for common mouth ulcers. Key differences include:

  • Duration: Ulcers usually heal within 7–10 days. Tongue cancer lesions persist longer.
  • Pain: Ulcers reduce in discomfort over time. Cancerous lesions may remain painful.
  • Appearance: Tongue cancer often appears as red or white patches with thickened or raised edges.

Tongue Cancer Diagnosis and Staging Methods Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment. The diagnostic process may include:

  • Physical examination by an ENT specialist
  • ENT doctor for tongue biopsy in Chennai and other regional centers
  • Imaging tests: MRI, CT scan, or PET to assess spread
  • Staging: Based on the TNM system (source)

Tongue Cancer Treatment Options in India Treatment for tongue cancer varies based on the stage and location of the tumor:

  1. Surgery for Tongue Cancer
    • Partial or total glossectomy (removal of part or all of the tongue)
    • Neck dissection if lymph nodes are involved
    • Reconstructive surgery for function and appearance
  2. Radiation Therapy
    • Commonly used post-surgery or as a primary treatment for early-stage cancer
  3. Chemotherapy and Radiation for Tongue Cancer
    • Combined modality therapy for advanced stages
  4. Laser Surgery for Tongue Lesions
    • A minimally invasive option for early-stage or pre-cancerous lesions
  5. Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy
    • Advanced treatments for recurrent or resistant cancers
  6. Rehabilitation and Support
    • Speech and swallowing therapy
    • Nutritional counseling

Best ENT Specialists for Tongue Cancer in Chennai, Bhubaneswar & Odisha If you're searching for expert care, consult Dr. Sanjeev Mohanty, Senior Consultant & Head of the ENT Department at MGM Healthcare, Chennai. He is a renowned ENT/Otorhinolaryngologist and Head and Neck Surgeon and founder of Dr. Mohanty’s ENT Specialty Clinic, Manapakkam, Chennai, Tamil Nadu. Dr. Mohanty also provides expert care in Bhubaneswar, Siliguri, and Odisha.

Preventive Measures for Tongue Cancer While not all cases are preventable, you can lower your risk by:

  • Avoiding tobacco and alcohol
  • Maintaining good oral hygiene
  • Eating a healthy, balanced diet
  • Getting vaccinated against HPV
  • Scheduling regular oral cancer screenings (CDC HPV Info)

Conclusion Tongue cancer is a serious but treatable condition when detected early. Symptoms like a non-healing sore on the tongue, red or white patches, or difficulty swallowing should not be ignored. Understanding the causes of tongue cancer such as tobacco, alcohol, and HPV is crucial. Treatments include surgery for tongue cancer, laser surgery for tongue lesions, chemotherapy, and radiation. Patients in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, Bhubaneswar, Siliguri, and Odisha should seek early diagnosis and oral cancer screening.

Blog Reviewed By
Dr. Sanjeev Mohanty (Head & Sr Consultant - ENT)
Throughout his career, Dr. Sanjeev Mohanty has received multiple awards, including first prizes for his research and presentations at renowned conferences like AOICON and CIGICON. Known for his compassionate patient care, he provides advanced ear care in Chennai and is recognized as one of the best ENT surgeons in Chennai. His expertise in managing a wide range of ENT issues, including throat pain treatment and hearing disorders, makes him a trusted ear health specialist. Whether seeking solutions for chronic ear infections or voice disorders, patients benefit from his high-quality ENT hospital services and commitment to their health.

Dr. Sanjeev Mohanty is a Senior Consultant and the Head of the ENT Department at MGM Healthcare, Chennai. With extensive experience as an ENT surgery expert and a specialist in ear health, head and neck surgery, and voice disorder care, he is widely respected in the medical community. He holds memberships in the Association of Otolaryngologists of India and the Indian Academy of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery, showcasing his commitment to advancing the field. Dr. Mohanty’s career is marked by prestigious recognitions, including the National Travel Fellowship in 1996, and certifications from the European Board of Otolaryngology in 2004.

FAQ 1: What are the early symptoms of tongue cancer I should watch for?

Early symptoms of tongue cancer include persistent sores or ulcers that don't heal, red or white patches on the tongue, unexplained pain or numbness, difficulty swallowing or speaking, and bleeding or lumps on the tongue. If any of these symptoms last longer than two weeks, consult an ENT specialist immediately.

FAQ 2: How can I tell the difference between a mouth ulcer and tongue cancer?

Mouth ulcers usually heal within 7–10 days and gradually become less painful. In contrast, tongue cancer lesions tend to persist, may remain painful, and often appear as red or white patches with thickened or raised edges. If a sore does not heal, get it checked by a doctor.

FAQ 3: What are the major risk factors for developing tongue cancer?

Key risk factors include tobacco use (smoking or chewing), heavy alcohol consumption, HPV infection, poor oral hygiene, chronic irritation, and a weakened immune system. Combining tobacco and alcohol significantly increases the risk.

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